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Snowcats & Airplanes used to rescue hunters trapped in snow

Melensdad

Jerk in a Hawaiian Shirt & SNOWCAT Moderator
Staff member
GOLD Site Supporter
Seems like I am seeing a lot more snowcats used in rescue efforts this year (and the season is just beginning). I wonder if there are more S.A.R. groups out there restoring and using older snowcats as they are one of the more economical types of vehicles that can pretty much go anywhere?

Search And Rescue Locates Hunters, Hikers Near Ashford
http://www.chronline.com/articles/2009/12/29/news/doc4b3a4947c317e960579835.txt
By The Chronicle
Published:
Tuesday, December 29, 2009 10:30 AM PST

Two groups of hikers and hunters were located by the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office and Lewis County Search and Rescue Monday after being reported missing in the High Rock area near Ashford.

Three bird hunters, all from Tacoma, were reported missing by a family member early Monday morning after they failed to return home the night before as planned. Two adult hikers from Sumner were also reported missing Monday morning. Both groups drove into the area on Sunday with the plan to return Sunday evening, but their vehicles became stuck in the deep snow and remained in their vehicles overnight, according to the sheriff’s office.

Staff and volunteers drove up Forest Roads 84 and 85 in a Snow Cat to look for the two separate groups, according to a release from the sheriff’s office.

Searchers also used an airplane which eventually located the vehicles of both groups after two feet of snow made a ground search difficult, according to the sheriff’s office.

The hunters were rescued by snowmobile approximately eight miles up the 84 road. All were in good condition with no medical attention necessary. They were reunited with their families at the scene. They did not have food with them but were dressed appropriately for the weather. The hunters stayed with their vehicle once it became stuck in the snow, according to the sheriff’s office.

The hikers were found about eight miles up Forest Road 85.

“We encourage outdoor recreation in Lewis County but people need to take precautions in extreme weather,” Sheriff Steve Mansfield said in a release. “Have a plan in place, let people know where you are going and when you plan on returning, take your cell phone with you but remember cell phones often don’t work in remote areas. Dress warmly and take extra food and water with you in case of an emergency.”​
 
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